Thank you!

Is it? Is it illegal to film the police? Can you, Joe Schmo Regular Pants take out your phone or your camer...

Is it? Is it illegal to film the police? Can you, Joe Schmo Regular Pants take out your phone or your camera, which you weirdly always have, and film the cops?
Yes. And also no. It's a complicated answer and that is why we, Ranker, have made a video explaining the entire issue. There's even a puppet in this video to help you more easily digest all of this information. That way you won't get into trouble by filming somebody you aren't supposed to.
Filming in public spaces, filming in private spaces, filming at your buddy's rent controlled apartment... these are all complicated things. They each present their own challenges and their own legal issues. Again, that is why we made the video. For you to learn. There are a lot of "buts" and "what ifs" when it comes to the legality of filming. Do you need a permit to film? Maybe! That's called a filming permit. Chances are you don't, unless you are filming a major motion picture... or if you don't want to get arrested. Will you get arrested for filming a cop? Watch and learn!